Preparing for Your Tattoo: Insights from Hammersmith Tattoo London
At Hammersmith Tattoo London, we’ve noticed that many clients approach tattoos as a fun activity, a joke, or even part of a festive occasion. While this perspective is fascinating and speaks to the joy tattoos bring, as professionals, we see it a bit differently. A tattoo isn’t just a colourful design; it’s an enduring piece of art etched onto the largest organ of your body—your skin. With this in mind, proper preparation can make all the difference.
We’re not here to lecture, but to share what we’ve learned from years of experience. The tattooing process and healing stages are deeply intertwined with the way your body works. Your skin, connected to every system in your body, is an integral part of this process. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your tattoo heals beautifully and looks vibrant for years to come.
How to Prepare Your Skin for a Tattoo
Once you’ve contacted us, we’ll have an initial conversation to discuss your ideas, choose the tattoo’s location, secure your booking with a deposit, and set your appointment time. If you’ve got a week or two before your session (the ideal scenario), here’s what you should do to prepare your skin:
Moisturise Twice Daily: Start moisturising your skin morning and evening after a shower. Keeping your skin hydrated ensures it’s in optimal condition for tattooing.
Exfoliate Regularly: A few times during the preparation period, exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells. Use a regular skin scrub or simply lather a sponge with soap and scrub your skin in the shower. Focus on the tattoo area and a slightly larger surrounding area—for instance, exfoliate up to your elbow if the tattoo is for your forearm.
This combination of moisturising and exfoliating ensures your skin is clean and ready. Tattooing over layers of dead skin reduces ink absorption, delays healing, and increases trauma to the skin. Proper preparation not only saves time and money but ensures a brighter, more vibrant tattoo.
Essential Tips for a Successful Tattoo Session
Rest and Sobriety: Be well-rested and avoid alcohol for several days before your session. Alcohol remains in the body and taxes your system, which needs to focus on healing during and after tattooing. Similarly, avoid caffeine on the day of your appointment and skip strenuous workouts.
Nutrition: Start your day with a hearty breakfast that includes protein, carbs, and fats. A light snack like yoghurt won’t cut it; your body needs fuel for the tattooing process. Bring substantial snacks or meals to eat every two hours during your session. If needed, there are many restaurants and coffee shops around our studio where you can grab a quick bite to eat. Energy bars or protein-rich snacks are also great for keeping your energy levels up.
Leave the Shaving to Us: Avoid shaving the tattoo area yourself. Our team will handle it with clean and precise techniques. If you shave and accidentally cut your skin, it could complicate the process. If necessary, use a trimmer to reduce hair, but it’s usually best to leave it to us.
Summer Skin Prep
If you’ve been enjoying the sun or hitting the waves, be mindful of your skin’s condition. Sunburned or peeling skin can complicate the tattooing process. Take the time to exfoliate and moisturise to ensure your skin is in top condition for your appointment. This small effort will make a noticeable difference in the final result.
Ready to Book Your Tattoo?
Whether it’s your first tattoo or your tenth, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a successful session. At Hammersmith Tattoo London, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to discuss your ideas and book your session. Let’s create something extraordinary together. Call 02076021086 or email info@hammersmithtattoo.co.uk to discuss your ideas or book your session. Visit our studio to speak with one of our talented artists. Your next masterpiece is just an appointment away!